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Located
on the sunrise side of the Gulf of Thailand, Cha-am and
Hua Hin are quiet relaxed coastal towns, perfect for family
vacations. In contrast to Pattaya, across the Gulf, these sister
resorts lack the bustle of an international playground and instead
offered a quiet escape. Both resorts boast long uncluttered
beaches, while Hua Hin, larger than Cha-am, has the added attraction
of a traditional fishing port. Neither place attempts to imitate
the international scene and are content with an enduring Thai
identity. Hua Hin, incidentally, is Thailand's oldest beach
resort, enjoying a vogue among Thai royalty and aristocracy
since the 1920s. The main joys of both resorts are a peaceful
time lazing on the beach soaking up the tropical sunshine
, the fun of a variety of water sports and a delight in relishing
some excellent seafood dining. |
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main attraction of Cha-am and Hua Hin is the chance to relax
on a lovely beach and escape the crowds. A wide choice of water
sports are offered by the main resort hotels, while the travelers
themselves can enjoy the simple pleasure of taking a stroll
and horse riding on the beach or enjoy a walk in town to have
a insight into the traditional lifestyles. |
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more active recreation away from the beach, Hua Hin's has several
delightful international class golf courses. These combine a
challenging game with the pleasure of lush tropical scenery
and fine views. Although the keynote of a stay at either Hua
Hin or Cha-Am is relaxation, the coastline in this region is
well worth exploring. South
from Hua Hin. |
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Pran Buri and down to Prachuap Khiri Khan, there are numerous
quiet coves and tiny fishing villages, ideal destinations for
day excursions. There is also Khao Sam Roi Yot ("Mountain of
300 Peaks") National Park, a short way south of Pran Buri.
Covering 60 square kilometres, it is a place of wonder
where the stunning landscape is a breath-taking blend of forested
hills, deep valleys, waterfalls, caves, beaches, mangrove swamps
and coves. A profusion of tropical vegetation makes the park
a sanctuary for various animals and birds. Further south, Prachuap
Khiri Khan, a provincial capital, is a fishing town with a scenic
bay. The beach front ,Mirror Mount, where there is a small pagoda
and a troop of playful monkeys, affords a stunning panorama
of the coastline and seascape. Visitors interested in Thai history
and culture will be fascinated by Phetchaburi 65 kilometers
north of Cha-am. |
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old town has a number of superb temples dating from the late
Ayutthaya period, as well as several other important sights
such as Khao Luang Cave and Phra Nakhon Khiri, the 19th century
hilltop palace of King Mongkut. The latter, accessible by a
cable railway, comprises an intriguing collection of regal apartments.
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Which
together with a museum, provides an insight into the culture
of the period. Inland, southwest of Phetchaburi is Kaeng Krachan
National Park, Thailand's largest protected area. It is a place
of most attractive scenery, and there is accommodation overlooking
an extensive landscaped reservoir for visitors who wish to prolong
their stay. Transport in Hua Hin and Cha Am or to other tourist
attractions is not difficult. It's has trains, airplanes,
air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses, local buses and
minibuses, motorcycles, bicycles for rent and tricycles as well
as horse-drawn carriages for hire.
What should people do here? Hua Hin is for families and for
those looking for a true relaxation by the beach, there being
no other upbeat activities characteristic of the other resorts.
It still retains its serene ambience and is poised to remain
just as it is. |
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